We must start with more ‘oomph’ against United

HOPEFULLY, by the time you read this, I will be in the Plaza Mayor enjoying a celebratory glass of Rioja or two having watched Chelsea secure their place in the next round of the Champions League. Fingers crossed – and more of that next week.

It’s been another good week with goals galore, clean sheets and some breathtaking skills on show. Our last goal against Bolton on Saturday was as sublime a strike as you will see this season. The build-up was outstanding – Anelka’s patience to deliver the perfect pass, Deco’s cushioned ball off the chest, allowing Lampard to audaciously back-flick for Drogba to fire home. If this had been a goal scored by Arsenal, I’m sure we would have it on a permanent loop and pundits would be using it as “proof” Arsene Wenger is the only manager in the Premier League to bring us the beautiful game. As it was, it barely got a mention in the press.

I haven’t quite figured out Ancelotti yet. I’m not sure if he is very clever or very lucky. I imagine the truth lies somewhere in between but as it is, it is very difficult to predict what kind of set-up we see on the pitch.